DPP’s decision on Mabaati casts doubt on NRM anti-corruption fight 

The recent decision by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Frances Abodo to withdraw from the iron sheets scandal case and exonerate several ministers raises significant concerns about the government’s commitment to fighting corruption.

The scandal, which involved the diversion of iron sheets meant for disarmament and community empowerment in Karamoja, not only exposed the abuse of power by influential individuals but also casts doubt on the government’s sincerity in addressing corruption.

This raises the critical question: is the government genuinely dedicated to combating corruption, or was the DPP simply trying to pacify public outrage with a superficial prosecution?

The assertion by the DPP that lack of evidence led to the closure of 17 out of the 23 files is deeply troubling. The dismissal of such a substantial number of cases, especially when the diversion of government resources was widely reported and acknowledged, is disheartening.

Considering the involvement of high-ranking officials such as the Speaker of parliament, prime minister, Finance ministers, and the vice president, a thorough investigation should have been imperative. Is the DPP’s withdrawal based on genuine lack of evidence, or is there a lack of political will to hold these influential individuals accountable?

One of the most perplexing aspects of this scandal is the defense presented by the involved ministers. Their claim of being unaware that the iron sheets were meant for vulnerable groups in Karamoja strains credulity. These ministers hold positions of power and responsibility, making it highly improbable that they were oblivious to the intended recipients of these resources.

The DPP’s unquestioning acceptance of their statements raises doubts about the investigation’s thoroughness and impartiality. The DPP’s argument that the ministers genuinely acquired the iron sheets and were unaware of their intended purpose is unconvincing.

As custodians of public resources, it is their duty to exercise due diligence and ensure that the items they receive are used appropriately. Pleading ignorance does not absolve them of their ethical and responsible obligations. Furthermore, the revelation that some ministers allegedly applied for the iron sheets as far back as 2018 raises further questions about the government’s handling of the situation.

If the ministers genuinely applied for these resources, why does the DPP not find it suspicious that the ministers had been expecting them all along? The ministers’ claim of stumbling upon the iron sheets in their compounds appears contrived and demolishes their defense.

These circumstances raise doubts about the government’s sincerity and suggest the possibility of a cover-up. The arrest and prosecution of only three ministers (Dr Mary Goretti Kitutu, Agnes Nandutu, and Amos Lugolobi) while others remain untouched only amplifies skepticism.

If the intention was genuinely to address corruption, shouldn’t all individuals implicated in the scandal be held accountable? The DPP’s decision not to prosecute the remaining ministers raises concerns about selective justice and undermines public confidence in the government’s anti-corruption endeavors.

The public deserves a transparent and thorough investigation into this scandal to restore faith in the DPP’s capacity to hold those in power accountable.